II Samuel 12:14 "Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die."
I suppose we have all heard someone utter profanities or use the Lord's name in vain at some point in our lives. Perhaps that person's words bothered you and made you cringe, as it well should have. The only thing worse than "cuss" talking is "cuss" living!
The term cuss living may be an unfamiliar word, but David's sin against Uriah and Bathsheba illustrates such living. Nathan said David's sin "hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme. . . ." David hadn't taken God's name in vain with his mouth; his life betrayed God!
In Israel, there was a very grave punishment for blasphemy-so great that people would not even speak God's sacred name for fear of blasphemy. Jewish men and women had great reverence even when writing the name of God. Yet David's sin of murder and adultery "despised the commandment of the LORD." The truth is, your life as God's child is a reflection on Him.
Sin is not primarily about you, your life, your satisfaction, or the consequences of sin you will face. Sin is not primarily about those who have been wronged by your sin. Sin is primarily about robbing God of the glory due to Him. Our focus is naturally drawn to David's sin, the consequences David faced, and the effects Uriah and Bathsheba endured. Well...what about God?
Who does more harm, the enemies of God who take His name in vain or the people of God who betray His name by their actions? David's sin belittled the commandment of God and gave opportunity for God's enemies to blaspheme. Your sin will have the same effects as David's sin in II Samuel. Every day you have occasion for either blessing or blasphemy. In your home, in your life, in your work, and in your worship, is God's name being blessed or blasphemed? Is your life an accurate portrayal of the great God that you serve?
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